Crime and Disorder Act 1998

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to ensure that582W
police forces and local authorities use the powers available to them under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. [97868]

The use of powers under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 is a matter for local authorities, the police and the courts. I am, however, keen to promote their full use where appropriate. Guidance has already been issued on all aspects of the Act, and last month my right hon. Friend, the Home Secretary, wrote to all local authority Chief Executives encouraging them to take proper advantage of the Act's new powers to deal with unruly and anti-social behaviour. This letter was copied to all Chief Officers of Police.